What is the term for the descent angle utilized in VNAV approaches?

The term for the descent angle utilized in VNAV approaches is the glide slope or descent gradient. This angle is essential for maintaining a stable descent path during an approach to an airport, ensuring that the aircraft descends at a consistent and safe rate toward the runway. The glide slope provides pilots with guidance on how to align with the runway while descending, which is critical for successful landings, especially in low visibility conditions.

In the context of VNAV, the glide slope is typically associated with an Instrument Landing System (ILS), where it defines the vertical component of the approach path. Pilots use this information in conjunction with their aircraft’s navigation systems to adjust their descent rate and ensure the appropriate altitude is maintained as they approach the runway.

Understanding this concept helps pilots to perform safe and effective approaches, and is a fundamental aspect of vertical navigation during flight operations.